Greenwashing: How to Spot It.
Sustainability is more than a buzzword—it’s a responsibility. But as eco-conscious shopping grows, so does greenwashing—the deceptive practice of making a product or brand seem more environmentally friendly than it really is.
At my brick and mortar- Great.full Goods- we believe in radical transparency. Every product we carry is thoughtfully sourced, truly sustainable, and free from misleading claims. But how can you, as a consumer, tell the difference between a genuinely sustainable product and one that’s just marketing itself that way? Let’s break it down.
What Is Greenwashing?
Greenwashing happens when a company exaggerates, misleads or falsely claims its products or practices are sustainable.
This can look like:
✅ Vague Claims – Words like “eco-friendly,” “natural,” or “green” with no certification or proof.
✅ Hidden Trade-Offs – A product made from recycled materials but still wrapped in plastic.
✅ Irrelevant Labels – “CFC-Free” when CFCs have already been banned for decades.
✅ Fake Certifications – A logo that looks like a legit eco-certification but isn’t.
✅ Misleading Imagery – Green leaves, earthy tones, and nature-inspired packaging that imply sustainability without actual substance.
Here are five ways to be a savvy, informed shopper:
1. Look for Third-Party Certifications
Legitimate sustainability claims are backed by real certifications, such as:
USDA Organic (for organic products)
GOTS (for sustainable textiles)
Fair Trade Certified (for ethically sourced goods)
Cradle to Cradle (for circular, sustainable production)
1% for the Planet
Certified B Corporation
STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEXÒ
Leaping Bunny
Rainforest Alliance Certified
The Green Business Bureau
If a product claims to be “certified green,” but you can’t verify the certification, it’s a red flag.
2. Read the Ingredients & Materials List
If a product is labeled “natural,” but the ingredients are full of synthetic chemicals, dyes, or microplastics, that’s greenwashing. Check for transparency in labeling—brands should be upfront about what’s inside.
3. Watch Out for Overuse of Buzzwords
Terms like “biodegradable,” “compostable,” or “non-toxic” sound great—but they don’t mean much unless they’re backed by specific details. Where is it compostable? Home or industrial? How long does it take to break down? Always ask questions!
4. Research the Brand’s Overall Practices
A company that sells one “green” product but doesn’t apply sustainability to its entire business model is likely greenwashing. Look for brands that have:
✅ Ethical supply chains
✅ Low-waste packaging
✅ Carbon offset programs
✅ Clear sustainability commitments
✅Have an actual face and a name to put to their product
5. Check If It’s Too Good to Be True
A super cheap “sustainable” product? Ethical, high-quality, eco-friendly goods cost more to produce. While sustainability shouldn’t be exclusive, extreme affordability can signal corner-cutting behind the scenes.
Why You Won’t Find Greenwashed Products at Great.full Goods
At Great.full Goods, we do the research, so you don’t have to. Every product we carry meets strict sustainability and ethical sourcing criteria. We vet brands for:
✅ Transparent ingredient lists
✅ Verified third-party certifications
✅ Ethical and low-impact production
✅ Honest marketing (no misleading claims)
Our promise? You’ll never find greenwashing here. Just truly sustainable, thoughtfully chosen goods that me and my family and friends have actually tried and love. Customers tell me it’s so helpful for them to not have to do the research and know they can trust the shop.
Final Thought: Keep Questioning, Keep Learning
Greenwashing is everywhere, but by staying informed, you can make choices that align with your values. And when you shop at Refill Shops… you can trust that every item is authentically sustainable—no gimmicks, no greenwashing, just the real deal.
